Measles Exposure Reported in Toronto: Public Health Advisories Issued

A person who visited Ripleys Aquarium in Toronto on Monday, April 21, from 1 to 7 p.m. has been identified as a case of measles exposure. The individual visited the location while highly contagious with the virus, which can spread through the air or on surfaces. Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease, and anyone who has not received two doses of the measles vaccine or has not had the virus is at risk of infection. Toronto Public Health (TPH) has confirmed three cases of measles this year, and the city is advising anyone who may have been exposed to take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus.

Key Takeaways:

• The individual who visited Ripleys Aquarium on April 21 has been identified as a case of measles exposure, putting others at risk of infection.
• Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air or on surfaces, and can stay in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours.
• Anyone who has not received two doses of the measles vaccine or has not had the virus is at risk of infection, especially those born in 1970 or later.
• TPH has confirmed three cases of measles this year, and the city is taking steps to prevent the spread of the virus.
• Anyone who believes they may have been exposed to the measles virus is advised to check their vaccination records, get vaccinated, or take a blood test to determine immunity.
• Symptoms of measles can include fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, a red rash, and small blue-white spots on the inside of the mouth and throat.
• People who have been vaccinated against measles should still monitor for symptoms and contact a healthcare provider immediately if they develop.
• If symptoms develop, wear a well-fitting mask when getting a medical assessment, and let healthcare providers know in advance to prepare and prevent the spread of the virus.
• More information on measles and recent local exposures can be found on the City's website.

Statistics:

• The measles virus can stay in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours.
• Anyone who has not received two doses of the measles vaccine or has not had the virus is at risk of infection.
• Almost all people unsure about their vaccination status can safely receive the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine.
• A blood test can be done to determine immunity to measles.
• Symptoms of measles can appear as early as 6 to 15 days after exposure, and last for about 7 to 10 days.

Sources:

• Toronto Public Health (TPH) Media Relations TPHmedia@toronto.ca
• The City of Toronto's website (www.toronto.ca)
• Contify.com (distributed by Euclid Infotech Pvt. Ltd.)